N C T M A . N E T

THE NCTMA LOGO
THE NORTH CAROLINA TACTICAL MEDICAL ASSOCIATION

Explanation of symbology:  

Overall shape – the shield shape symbolizes the mission to protect.

Color - the blue background, which is the traditional color of both law enforcement and prehospital medical services, refers to the dual background against which tactical medicine is practiced.

Snake – the snake is adapted from the staff of Asclepias, the deified ancient Greek healer, to signify the healing mission.

Lightning bolt – the lightning bolt that the snake climbs symbolizes speed and power, both of which are essential in the tactical setting. In addition, it refers to medical electrical therapy (defibrillation), an advanced medical skill that is reserved for specific life threatening situations. This symbolizes advanced lifesaving medical capabilities that are adapted to and applied in the unique circumstances of the tactical setting.

Swords – the swords represent the availability of force that tactical teams specialize in. They also represent the military heritage that is the origin and one of the primary applications of tactical medicine. The swords are placed in front of the medical symbols to reflect the priority of the tactical mission, which comes before the medical mission.